PREVENTING FALLS (LUNCH & LEARN)
Protecting Health, Independence and Confidence
Falls are a leading cause of injury and loss of independence, especially among older adults — but they’re not inevitable. At the Audrain County Health Department’s Health and Wellness Academy, we provide education, support and resources to help individuals reduce their fall risk and continue living safely and confidently in their own homes.
The Audrain County Health Department’s Health and Wellness Academy offers Lunch & Learn sessions on fall prevention. This class includes a heart-healthy lunch and practical tools you can use right away.
Call 573-581-1332 to register for this Lunch & Learn.
WHY FALL PREVENTION MATTERS
A single fall can have serious consequences, even if no bones are broken. It often leads to reduced mobility, increased fear and a loss of independence that can change someone’s life permanently. For adults over 65, the statistics are especially striking:
1 in 3 older adults falls each year.
Falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries in this age group.
Even minor falls can result in hospitalization, long recovery times or a move to long-term care.
The good news? Most falls are preventable — with the right knowledge, support and simple changes to daily routines and environments.
WHAT CONTRIBUTES TO FALLS
Falls are rarely caused by a single issue. More often, they result from a combination of physical, environmental and medical factors, including:
Muscle weakness or joint stiffness.
Poor vision or low lighting.
Uneven surfaces or cluttered walkways.
Medication side effects.
Chronic conditions such as vertigo, neuropathy or low blood pressure.
Fear of falling, which can reduce activity and increase weakness.
Understanding your personal risk factors is the first step toward taking control.
BREAKING THE CYCLE OF INSTABILITY
Many people who experience a fall begin to limit their activities out of fear. But inactivity leads to weaker muscles, less flexibility and a greater risk of falling again. Our goal is to help break this cycle by encouraging safe movement and providing information that supports active, confident living.
Fall prevention is about more than safety. It’s about reclaiming your ability to enjoy everyday life — gardening, walking the dog, going to the store — without fear.
HOW ACHD CAN HELP
At the Audrain County Health Department, we’re committed to helping our community reduce fall risks through accessible education and support. Whether you’re looking for information, advice or next steps, our Health and Wellness Academy provides resources to help you stay steady, safe and independent.
Our goal isn’t just to prevent injury — it’s to help people continue living with freedom, confidence and independence.
TAKE THE NEXT STEP
If you’re concerned about falling — or simply want to stay ahead of the curve — we’re here to help. The Audrain County Health Department offers information and guidance to support safer movement, healthier aging and greater confidence in daily life.
Let’s work together to build a safer, more confident Audrain County — one step at a time.
JOIN US
Learn more about fall prevention resources or upcoming health programs. Call us at 573-581-1332.
